Two dedicated volunteer groups in Luton earn top award from the King
Teams representing two volunteer groups in Luton have been awarded the prestigious King’s Award For Voluntary Service
They include Luton and Dunstable Tamil Aalayam and Azalea, each earning the highest UK honour for local volunteer groups, equivalent to an MBE, awarded annually on November 14. It recognises outstanding volunteer‑led organisations that make a significant positive impact in their communities.
For more than two decades, Luton and Dunstable Tamil Aalayam has been enriching the lives of children, young people and families through the preservation and promotion of Tamil language, culture and heritage.
Established in 2004 and run entirely by volunteers, the organisation provides Tamil language education alongside traditional arts, music and cultural programmes, helping young people develop confidence, identity and a strong sense of belonging.
Through the dedication of its volunteers, hundreds of students have achieved academic success in Tamil language qualifications while generations of families have been brought together through learning, cultural celebration and community service. Drawing volunteers from across faiths, backgrounds and generations, Tamil Aalayam exemplifies the power of voluntary action to strengthen communities, foster inclusion and preserve cultural heritage. Its enduring contribution to community life in Luton and Dunstable makes it a highly deserving recipient of The King’s Award for Voluntary Service.
Mrs Sabitha Nalli, Group Leader, Luton and Dunstable Tamil Aalayam, said: “I am absolutely delighted that our group’s work has been recognised with this prestigious award. I am immensely proud of our amazing team of dedicated volunteers, whose hard work and commitment have been at the heart of Luton and Dunstable Tamil Aalayam for the last 10 years. This recognition is a tribute to the time, energy and care they devote to preserving and promoting the Tamil language, sharing our cultural traditions and bringing generations together, thereby creating a stronger, more cohesive community.
"I would also like to thank our volunteers, Mrs Gayathri Yogendran, Mrs Tharani Maheswaran and the team who helped with the process. It is a tremendous honour to celebrate our team's contribution, and I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to every volunteer who helps make this work possible.”
Azalea is a volunteer-led charity that has transformed the lives of women affected by sexual exploitation, sex trafficking and modern slavery across Luton and Bedford. Through its flagship Encompass programme, dedicated volunteers provide compassionate outreach, practical support and trauma-informed recovery services, helping women move towards safety, stability and independence.
Its innovative Flint project also uses trained volunteer mentors to support men seeking to break free from the cycle of purchasing sex and develop healthier relationships. Working closely with the police, local authorities and safeguarding partners, Azalea’ volunteers operate in some of the most challenging circumstances imaginable, demonstrating exceptional commitment, professionalism and care. Their unwavering dedication has made a profound difference to vulnerable individuals and communities, making Azalea a truly deserving recipient of The King’s Award for Voluntary Service.
Ruth Robb, Co-Founder and chief executive of Azalea, said: “We are absolutely delighted and humbled to receive The King’s Award for Voluntary Service. This recognition belongs to every volunteer who has walked alongside all facing the impact of Modern Slavery - sexual exploitation.
For nearly two decades, volunteers have been at the heart of Azalea’s work, demonstrating extraordinary dedication, courage, and approachability. They have given their time, skills, prayers, and dedication to help all rebuild their lives and discover a future free from Modern Slavery- sexual exploitation.
“This award shines a light on the dedication of our volunteers. We are incredibly grateful to our volunteers, donors and communities who make this vital work possible. Receiving The King’s Award empowers us to continue serving with dedication, empathy and faith as we seek to see lives restored and communities transformed.”
Signed certificates from the King, will be presented by the Lord-Lieutenant for Bedfordshire, Mrs Susan Lousada.